Roundup of deer opener reports

Albert Lea: Hart Brothers Weaponry reported a good start to the season with about 30 registered deer as of late afternoon. Among those reported were a 10-point and 12-point buck.

Bemidji: There was no wind, and quite a few people were taking advantage of the cool weather. Men and women of all ages were staying in the woods. Bluewater Bait & Sports saw some nice 10-point bucks and several kids with their first deer.

Detroit Lakes: With hunters now able to register their bag online, registration numbers in this area have become skewed. In the past, Four Corners would register at least 100 deer and maybe even reach 200. This year, it was sitting at 20 despite perfect weather and moderate temperatures in the 30s. A nice 10-pointer topped the early list.

Ely: With a light frost on the ground and a clear sky above, the conditions were ideal for the early risers. A couple of 8- and 10-point bucks were registered at Babes Bait and Tackle, which saw quite a few does taken during the day. Plenty of deer were also seen along the roadside, a good sign because they are moving around. Expect this part of the state to be ahead of last year's numbers.

Grand Rapids: Only 13 deer, six of which were antlerless, were registered at God's Country Outfitters. The largest buck recorded was an 8-pointer. There was a quarter-inch snowfall on the ground, which should have helped for tracking. The rut has just started on the very south end of the zone, so hunting should get better.

International Falls: The success rate around this Canadian border town appeared to be quite a bit better than a year ago. There was little to no wind on an overcast day with temperatures reaching the upper 30s.

Mankato: Only a handful of deer had been registered at Gander Mountain as of late afternoon. One average-size deer had been registered at the Holiday Station store on Riverfront Drive as of midafternoon.

Virginia: It was a pleasant day for hunting on the east side of the Iron Range with no snow on the ground. The Lucky 7 in Virginia registered only a handful of deer, the largest a couple of button bucks.

Willmar: Hunter turnout in Kandiyohi County appeared heavier than last year, according to Running's Farm & Fleet. But, as of midafternoon, no hunters had checked in.

Worthington: Sales of licenses in Nobles County were higher compared to last year, according to Running's Farm & Fleet. As of midafternoon, one small buck had been registered.